Life lately

I love taking on-line courses. I usually take one course per semester and it fits perfectly in my schedule. The last couple of years I have been working towards a Nursing Unit Clerk certificate through a local college. Last Tuesday was the start of the winter session. When I opened the syllabus for the course, I noticed that there was no final written exam only quizzes and assignments. I therefore decided there and then to sign up for another course. So English Fundamentals is the second on-line course that I am taking this semester. I felt so ambitious last Tuesday...  Now I think I am regretting it!

I bought a Fitbit Zip over the weekend. I know I am suppose to be on a spending freeze but I really really wanted needed it. A great motivation tool to get me active and stay focus on shedding a couple of pounds before bikini swimsuit season. My goal is to walk 10,000 steps a day and to increase my water intake.

I watched this movie twice over the weekend. The first time on Saturday night with Bidou then again Sunday morning. It is no blockbuster nor Grammy Award worthy movie… just a simple little movie about real people and a real relationship.

I did not read much during the weekend. However, Bidou left this morning for Peru then he needs to stop in San Diego for business and he will be gone for more than a week. Therefore, I foresee many lonely evenings ahead with just me, a book and Kloé! 

How was your weekend??

Have you seen "Enough Said"?

new followers, skincare and facials

This little korner of mine is growing and I am so excited. Welcome to Kate from Another Clean Slate. Kate is an avid reader therefore, I knew that I would like Kate from the start. You read a lot... you are automatically my new best friend. Also I would like to welcome Angie from Angie's Angle. She has the cutest little dog named Miss Roxy.

Now for the today's subject - Skincare and Facials! but first a little background with regards to my facial skin. As a teenager, I did not have a great complexion. Pimples and I were best friends. Then in my late 20's, my dermatologist prescribed the medication Accutane at a very low dosage. It help a a lot. Since being in my mid-30's and my 40's, I have been taking great care of my skin. I buy high end products and get facials 4 times a year. 

Here are the skincare products that I use. For my everyday skincare, I use GM Collin. This company was founded in France but is now based in Montreal, Quebec (love to use Canadian stuff!). Another skincare company that I use is Aquafolio. I must admit, that I do spend a great amount of money for these products but they are worth it.

Products I use for my daily morning and night regime

I use these products once a week... usually on Wednesday nights

Then on Sunday evenings... I use these.

I really enjoy the pampering and relaxation when receiving a facial treatment. There are great benefits to facial treatments. My skin always looks so cleansed and fresh (and a little red) when leaving the spa that is why I always schedule them for late evenings. I have a scheduled facial treatment for tonight (and yes it is included in my spending freeze). What a great way to finish off this busy week!

Do you get facial treatments on a regular basis??

most depressing day of the year & weekend recap

I heard on the news this morning that today is the most depressing day of the year! Very interesting since I am feeling fabulous this morning. It's back to work and back to a normal routine ~ finally! Yes guys... I love routines!

I started reading "Just One Year" by Gayle Forman during the weekend. It is the sequel of  "Just One Day". I also had my first of four lattes allowed during my spending freeze (see here for my rules and regulations).

I made these on Sunday for my lunches this week. Instead of having them for breakfast, I will have them for lunch with a salad. Don't they look yummy? eggs, red peppers, oignons, cheddar cheese, fresh cilantro. Bake in oven at 350 for 25 minutes.

I have never mentioned it on the blog but I LOVE to play cards. My Daddy, Bidou and I play this particular card game that we call "neuf" (French word for the number nine) every time we get together and always on Sundays after supper.

How was your weekend??

Are you feeling depressed today??

rules and regulations of January spending freeze

When I read that Steph from Life according to Steph regularly does spending freezes, I was impressed and I told myself that it is something I should do.  Even though, I do keep track of my daily spending and follow a monthly budget... I do go overboard on some areas. 

The following are my rules and my regulations that I have set for myself regarding the spending freeze effective from January 2nd to January 31st. Bidou will be so so happy!! :)

When it comes to spending $$ on daily purchases a.k.a. my problem areas!

No daily morning coffee run to Tim Horton - instead I will drink the "terrible" free coffee that is offered at my employers.

I have acquired two $10 gift cards (one at Starbucks and the other one at Second Cup) for my weekend or night time lattes. That makes 4 lattes in a month... it should be plenty!

No magazine or book purchases.

When it comes spending $$ on beauty stuff - another one of my problem areas!

My monthly hair appointment is scheduled for January 16th - I refuse to cancel it! I am 43 years old and have grey hair. Enough said!

I have a facial scheduled for January 10th - I will use the gift certificate that I received as a Christmas gift from the bosses at work.

No make-up, facial/body creams or hair products.  I have enough stuff at home to last a couple of months, at least! 

Last September, I promised my friend Christine that we would schedule a thermal experience with massage at the Nordik Spa\Nature for sometime in January. Exact date has yet to be scheduled.

When it comes to Kloé's needs
She does NOT need another bed, coat, sweater, toy or treat.

When it comes to clothes and shoes
I have enough clothes in my closet to wear something different every day for 2 weeks (at least!)

When it comes to spending $$ on lunches
I am pretty good when it comes to bringing my lunch to work. I usually just eat out on Friday's. However, during this budget freeze, I will bring my lunch everyday. single. day.

When it comes to grocery shopping
I will make a list of the items I need at the grocery store. If it is not on the list... I am not allowed to purchase it. My pantry is full so use it!

When it comes to eating out with Bidou
A budget of $100 is set for this category.... see how this will work out!

When it comes to weekend\nightly activities
I only have one activity planned. It is with my 12-year old nephew on January 25th. Money will be spent there.  A budget of $75 has been set.  I love to spoil that baby-boy-that-is-growing-up-way-too-fast of mine!

When it comes to renting movies
I am only allowed to buy 2 rentals via itunes since we use Apple TV. We pay a monthly subscription to Netflix therefore we will use is more. 

Please wish me luck! I will need it! :)